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Fabric Canopy Over Reclaimed Timber Structure Supporting Community Engagement in a Forested Setting

Author:
Lindsey Authement
Fabric Canopy Over Reclaimed Timber Structure Supporting Community Engagement in a Forested Setting

Project in-detail

A fabric canopy envelops a reclaimed timber structure, enhancing natural ventilation and creating an interactive community hub within a forested landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
A fabric canopy adapts to weather changes, enhancing user comfort and functionality.
02
Reclaimed timber is the primary structural material, promoting sustainability.
03
Natural drainage systems integrate seamlessly with the site’s topography.
04
Curvilinear forms mimic organic shapes, fostering a connection with nature.
05
Interactive spaces encourage social engagement and community involvement.

The "Lung of the Forest" project for the Sansusi Forest Food Court is an architectural design that harmonizes community engagement and environmental sustainability. Located in Latvia, this structure is conceived as a multifunctional space where users can gather, dine, and interact with nature. The design prioritizes the integration of natural elements into the architectural framework, emphasizing the importance of ecological literacy in modern design.

The overarching concept of this project is centered around the metaphor of the forest functioning as a lung. This notion permeates the design approach, inspiring organic forms that mimic natural shapes and flows. The food court serves a variety of functions, including food preparation, dining, and social interaction, creating a vibrant hub that fosters community bonding.

Unique Design Approaches in Architecture

One of the most distinctive features of the "Lung of the Forest" project is its use of biomimicry as a guiding principle. The architectural elements are intentionally designed to reflect organic forms, creating a seamless connection between the built environment and its natural surroundings. The structure incorporates a series of curvilinear shapes that not only enhance aesthetic appeal but also promote natural ventilation.

Another significant aspect is the adaptability of the design. The building features adjustable fabric elements that can respond to varying weather conditions, optimizing both comfort and functionality. On rainy days, the fabric components facilitate effective water management while maintaining usability. Similarly, during windy conditions, these elements can be manipulated to ensure safety without compromising the experience of the users.

Innovative Use of Materials

Material selection plays a vital role in reinforcing the project's sustainable ethos. The design employs reclaimed timber for its structural framing, which is both durable and eco-friendly. Stainless steel components ensure structural integrity and provide longevity through resistance to weathering. Furthermore, the implementation of specialized nylon fabrics enhances functionality, allowing for flexibility in the architectural design while facilitating natural airflow within the space.

Architectural plans for the Sansusi Forest Food Court reflect a careful consideration of spatial organization. Areas designated for cooking, dining, and socializing are explicitly defined yet fluidly connected, promoting interaction among users. This thoughtful layout encourages movement throughout the space and establishes a dynamic communal atmosphere.

Call to Action

To gain deeper insights into the "Lung of the Forest" project, including detailed architectural plans, sections, and unique architectural ideas, explore the project presentation. The design's thoughtful approach to integrating natural elements and fostering community interaction exemplifies the potential of architecture to create meaningful spaces.

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MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

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Competition organisers

The MICROHOME 10 competition invites participants to submit visionary designs for off-grid, modular microhomes that push the limits of sustainable, small-scale living. Organised by Buildner in partnership with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this tenth edition sets the challenge of designing a dwelling for two people within a maximum floor area of 25 m², encouraging bold solutions adaptable to any urban or rural location. The competition continues Buildner’s mission to foster innovative approaches to compact, energy-efficient housing that can address pressing global challenges.

This year’s edition offers a generous total prize fund of €100,000, including the Kingspan Award for designs that integrate high-performance Kingspan products and the Hapi Homes Award for a project selected for real-world construction. In addition to cash prizes, the winners gain international exposure through Buildner’s media partnerships, publications, and a dedicated MICROHOME magazine, further amplifying their ideas to the wider architectural community.

Key dates for MICROHOME 10 include the closing date for registration on 25 September 2025, the submission deadline on 29 October 2025 (11:59 p.m. London time), and the announcement of winners on 9 December 2025. These milestones ensure participants have clear timelines to develop and present their concepts, with early registration discounts available to support students and emerging designers worldwide.

MICROHOME

Design a new small-scale home concept in the 10th edition of MICROHOME — 100,000 € prize + construction

100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 € + Potential realisation
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 25 September 2025

Enter an open architecture
competition now

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